How to Get Started as a Podcast Guest: A Guide for Creators, Job Seekers, and Early-Career Pros
Being a guest on a podcast can amplify your personal brand, expand your network, and open new opportunities. Whether you’re a content creator, a job seeker looking to stand out, or an early-career software professional eager to share your expertise.
Podcasts are more popular than ever: in the U.S. alone, over 100 million people listen to podcasts regularly. This huge, engaged audience presents a golden opportunity. In fact, podcast listeners tend to be attentive and curious and 74% tune in hoping to learn something new.
They’re also more likely to trust and follow someone they heard on a podcast. (One study found 45% of podcast listeners are more likely to follow a brand or person after hearing them on a show! In short, podcast guesting is a powerful way to build credibility, connect with like-minded people, and get your message out there.
But how do you actually become a podcast guest if you’re just starting out? This guide will walk you through everything from finding guest opportunities to nailing your appearance on the mic, with a focus on practical tips for newcomers. Let’s dive in.
Finding Podcast Guest Opportunities on Social Media
One of the easiest ways to discover podcast guest opportunities is through the social networks you already use. LinkedIn, in particular, is a goldmine for professional connections and can be used to find podcast openings:
Engage and network. Don’t just lurk; comment on podcast hosts’ posts and share insights. If a host frequently posts about their show, engage thoughtfully. Over time, they may notice you and consider you for a guest spot. For example, if a tech podcast host posts an episode about JavaScript frameworks, you could add a short comment sharing your perspective. This helps build an organic connection.
Leverage LinkedIn posts to announce your interest. As a job seeker or creator, you can make a post highlighting that you’re open to podcast interviews on certain topics. For instance, “Hey everyone! I love talking about early-career challenges in tech. If any podcasts are looking for guests to discuss what it’s like breaking into software development, I’d be happy to chat!” Such a post can get shared or noticed by someone who knows a relevant podcast.
Other social platforms can work too. Twitter (now X) has an active podcasting community; searching for phrases like “podcast guest needed” or “looking for podcast guest” can surface recent requests. Facebook groups for podcasters are another avenue – some groups exist solely to match hosts with potential guests. The key is to put yourself out there and stay active where podcast conversations are happening.
Beyond Social Media: Platforms and Organic Connections
What if you’re not big on social media, or you want to cast a wider net? Fortunately, there are dedicated platforms and alternative strategies for finding podcast guest spots:
Join Podcast Guest directories. Websites like PodcastGuests.com allow you to sign up as an expert or guest and get matched with podcasters. These services often send out regular email listings of shows looking for guests in various categories. For example, PodcastGuests.com sends two emails a week, each with about 10 guest opportunities across different topics. You can quickly scan and apply to any that fit your expertise. Such platforms have large networks (PodcastGuests boasts over 47,000 users connecting podcasters with guests), making them a useful resource if you have a bit of budget (some features may require a paid plan) or time to fill out your profile.
Explore other guest matching services. In addition to PodcastGuests, there are others like MatchMaker.fm, Podmatch, and Guestio. Each works slightly differently, but the idea is similar: they maintain databases of podcasts and willing guests. You can filter podcasts by category, audience size, etc., and pitch yourself through the platform.
Leverage organic connections with hosts. Think about any podcasters you might already know through your personal or professional circles. Maybe a former colleague hosts a niche industry podcast, or you met a tech podcaster at a conference. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them directly. A friendly email or message saying you enjoyed a recent episode and would love to contribute to their show’s conversation can go a long way. Because you have an existing rapport, even if it’s just “we met once at an event” kind of thing, these hosts may be more receptive to featuring you.
Attend industry events or webinars. Often, podcast hosts participate in webinars, Twitter Spaces, or industry meetups. Join these events, ask good questions, and engage with the host afterwards. You might mention, “I really liked your questions on today’s panel. By the way, I have some experience in [your topic]; if you ever need a podcast guest, I’d be happy to help.” This approach is a bit more indirect, but it’s about building relationships organically.
Remember, whether through platforms or personal connections, genuine relationships matter. Podcasting can be a personal medium, and hosts often prefer guests who are enthusiastic and reliable. Networking your way into an invitation can sometimes be more effective and pleasant than cold-pitching to strangers.
Crafting a Compelling Pitch to Podcast Hosts
Once you’ve identified some podcasts that might be a good fit, it’s time to pitch yourself to the hosts. Your pitch, often in the form of an email or direct message, is essentially your audition to convince the host that you’d be a valuable guest. Here’s how to make it count:
Keep it concise and personalized. Podcast hosts (especially popular ones) get a lot of guest requests. A long, generic email will likely be ignored. Instead, write a short introduction that mentions the host’s show by name and maybe a specific episode or topic you appreciated. For example: “Hi [Name], I enjoyed your recent episode on cybersecurity – the story about hacked IoT devices was fascinating. I’m a cloud security analyst and would love to share some insights with your audience as a guest on your show.”
Highlight your relevant expertise and value. In a few sentences, explain who you are and what you can talk about. Tailor it to the podcast’s theme. If the show is about career growth, and you’re a young software professional, you might say: “As a software engineer who pivoted from teaching, I can speak to learning to code in your 30s and the challenges of breaking into tech.” Make it clear what listeners will gain from your appearance. Whether it be it a unique story, expertise in a niche, or tips you can provide.
Suggest a couple of topics (but don’t stress about perfect alignment). It helps to propose a title or topic idea or two for the episode, just to spark the host’s imagination. For instance: “I could talk about imposter syndrome as a junior developer or share lessons from building my first app that failed – whichever you think fits best.” Don’t worry if your ideas aren’t a perfect match for what you think the host wants; the host might have a different direction in mind, and that’s okay. The goal is to show you have content ready to go. If the host likes you but wants to adjust the angle, be flexible and open to their topic redirection. They know their audience and what topics have been covered recently. Maybe they’ll say, “Actually, could you talk about open source contributions instead?” – at which point you could gladly adapt.
Show enthusiasm and credibility. Let your passion for the subject come through in your tone. Also, mention any relevant credibility markers briefly: e.g. “I’ve spoken about this topic at [X conference]” or “I write a blog on this subject with 5,000 monthly readers.” If you don’t have big credentials, that’s fine. You can emphasize your personal experience or unique perspective (“I just went through the job hunt, so I have firsthand stories your early-career listeners would relate to.”). The key is to give the host confidence that you’ll be an engaging, knowledgeable guest.
End with a polite call-to-action. Close your pitch by making it easy for the host to respond. For example: “If this sounds interesting, I’d be happy to send over any more info or jump on a quick call to discuss. Thank you for your time and consideration!” This invites them to take the next step.
Pitching pro-tip: Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back right away or at all. Many hosts simply can’t respond to every inquiry. It’s okay to send a polite follow-up after a couple of weeks, but if there’s still no response, move on gracefully. There are plenty of podcasts out there. Remember, there are over 4 million active podcasts worldwide and counting, so the opportunities are endless.
Start Small (Especially If You’re New)
When you’re first starting as a podcast guest, it’s wise to begin with smaller or newer podcasts before shooting for the big leagues. Why? For one, if you have zero public speaking or on-air experience, a smaller show is a gentler testing ground. You can get comfortable talking into a microphone and being recorded without the pressure of a huge audience listening. Smaller podcasts are often more relaxed and forgiving; the host might even be relatively new to hosting, so you’re in it together, learning and improvising as needed.
There’s also a practical reason: major, established podcasts typically receive many pitches and often prioritize guests with a proven track record or higher profile. It might be tough to land a spot on “Famous Tech Podcast X” as your very first gig. However, “Niche New Tech Chats,” which just launched 3 months ago, might be actively looking for interesting guests and willing to give newcomers a chance.
Starting with a smaller podcast allows you to build up your portfolio of guest appearances. You can later point to those episodes as examples of your work. Even if the listener base was small, you never know who might hear it. Niche podcasts can have very dedicated audiences, and your insights could make a big impact on those listeners. Plus, each appearance is practice that will make you a better speaker for the next, larger opportunity.
So, don’t be afraid to say yes to a podcast that’s just getting started or has a modest following. Not only are you helping each other out, but you’re also refining your craft. Over time, you can gradually work your way up to bigger shows with confidence.
Bring Something to Promote (It Helps!)
It may sound counterintuitive, but having something of your own to promote when you go on a podcast actually makes you a more appealing guest. Many first time guests worry, “Do I need to have a book or product to pitch? I don’t want to come off as salesy.” The truth is, podcast hosts often appreciate when a guest has a project or offering to mention, as long as it’s relevant and not the only thing you talk about.
Here’s why it’s helpful to have a “plug”:
It shows you’re serious and invested. If you mention that you’ve got, say, a personal blog, a startup project, or an upcoming course, it signals to the host that you’re actively engaged in your field. You have “skin in the game.” For example: “I recently launched an open-source library for data visualization, and I’d love to share some lessons learned on your podcast.” This tells the host that you’re passionate about the topic and likely to promote the episode (because it also promotes your project). Hosts love when guests will share the episode with their own audience – it helps the show grow. By having something to promote, you implicitly promise to do that cross-promotion.
It provides content for the conversation. When you have a book, product, or initiative to talk about, it naturally gives structure to the interview. The host can ask you what inspired your project, what challenges you overcame, what listeners can learn from it, and so on. If you’re a job seeker or early-career professional without a “product,” consider promoting yourself. For instance, mention your job search or a recent achievement (“I’m currently seeking a role in data science, and I’ve been running a small YouTube channel where I break down coding interview problems”). This is still something concrete to discuss and promote.
It reassures hosts about quality. A guest with something to promote is often a guest who has thought through their message. If you’ve built a course or written a paper, you likely have prepared talking points and expertise. Hosts know this, and it can make them more comfortable booking you. They also know you won't mind if they ask, “Where can listeners find out more about your work?” – which is a common question at the end of episodes. You’ll be ready with an answer (your website, LinkedIn, product page, etc.), rather than an awkward, “Uh, nowhere in particular.”
In short, don’t shy away from having a promotional angle. It doesn’t have to be a big fancy product; it can be as simple as directing listeners to your blog or inviting them to connect with you on LinkedIn. The key is to integrate it authentically. Your primary goal is still to provide value to the audience; the promotion is a bonus that shows you’re committed.
The Pre-Interview Chat: Why a Pre-Call with the Host Matters
Having an informal pre-interview chat, even virtually, with your host can set the stage for a great recorded episode.
Many podcast hosts will suggest a pre-interview call or at least an email exchange before the actual recording session. If they don’t bring it up, you can propose a short 15-minute chat ahead of time. This conversation is incredibly valuable for several reasons:
Learn the host’s preferences and show format. Every podcast has its own style. Some hosts like a very conversational, off-the-cuff approach; others might send you a list of questions in advance and prefer structured responses. Use the pre-call to ask the host about the format: “Do you typically do a free-flowing chat or should I be ready for specific questions?” Also clarify any technical details (Will it be video or audio only? How long do recordings usually go?).
Identify “show gaps” or desired topics. This is your chance to find out what the host really wants from the episode. Ask if there are any topics they feel their audience is craving or any angles the show hasn’t covered yet (these could be considered the content gaps you can fill). For example, the host might reveal, “I’ve done a lot of episodes on web development, but none yet on AI in healthcare, and listeners have been asking about it.” If that’s something you can speak on, bingo you’ve just aligned on a high-value topic. Even if you already pitched a topic, be open to tweaking it based on this discussion.
Build rapport and ease nerves. A pre-interview chat is like meeting your speaking partner before stepping on stage. It breaks the ice. You’ll feel more comfortable during the real interview because you’re not talking to a total stranger. You’ve already shared a few laughs or stories in advance. It also signals to the host that you’re proactive and care about making the episode great. This rapport can translate into better on air chemistry.
Clarify promotional and scheduling details. You can use this time to ask when the episode might air so you can be ready to promote it and if there’s anything the host expects from you (like a bio, headshot, or talking points). It’s also a good moment to double check that you’re on the same page about any sensitive areas to avoid or topics to emphasize.
Not every podcast will require a pre-call, but when possible, take advantage of it. It’s a chance to ask questions, align expectations, and reduce the unknowns before you hit the record button. Both you and the host will feel more prepared, and that often leads to a smoother, more enjoyable conversation for the audience.
Preparing for Your Podcast Episode
Now that you’ve booked an interview and have aligned on topics, it’s time to prepare so you can deliver an episode that shines. Even if you’re confident in your knowledge, never walk into a podcast recording cold. Here are key steps to get ready:
Thorough preparation – from researching the show to practicing your talking points – will boost your confidence and help you sound sharp and relaxed on the mic.
Research the podcast and host. Listen to a few past episodes, especially ones similar in theme to what you’ll be discussing. Pay attention to the host’s style: Do they interject with many follow-up questions? Do they prefer narrative answers or rapid fire facts? Note the format, is there a fixed segment like “lightning round questions” or a tradition of asking guests a particular question at the end? Knowing these in advance prevents you from being caught off guard. Also, note the length of episodes so you can gauge how detailed to get in your answers.
Write down thorough notes or talking points. Outline the key points you want to make and any important stories or examples you plan to share. This isn’t to read from a script (please don’t read your answers verbatim it will sound unnatural), but rather to organize your thoughts. Jot down 3-5 main bullet points you definitely want to cover during the interview. For example: if you’re going on a career podcast to talk about job hunting, your notes might include “story about 5 failed interviews before my first job offer – lesson on resilience” or “tip: using open source contributions as a portfolio – explain how I did this.” Having these bullet points ensures you won’t forget the gems you want to deliver.
Practice out loud. This step is crucial, especially if you’re not used to speaking in a recorded setting. Find a quiet room (or even use a voice recorder or Zoom by yourself) and rehearse talking through your key points. You don’t need to memorize a speech, but saying things out loud helps identify tongue-twister phrases or ideas that don’t come out clearly on the first try. It can also reveal where you might be rambling. Try to practice answering a question succinctly, as if the host just asked it. Time yourself if necessary to ensure you can cover a point in, say, 2-3 minutes, rather than 10. This builds confidence and smooths out your delivery.
Prepare anecdotes and examples. Audiences love stories. Think of a couple of short anecdotes that illustrate your points and keep listeners engaged. Perhaps it’s the funny story of how a bug brought down your app the night before launch, or a personal moment when you realized you needed a career change. These make your insights memorable (more on that in the next section). Make sure these stories have a clear tie-in to your message.
Check your tech and environment. Technical issues can derail an otherwise great interview. Before the day of the recording, test your microphone, headphones, and internet connection. Find a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted (put your phone on silent, etc.). If you’re using any software (Zoom, Skype, a specialized podcast platform), make sure it’s updated and you know how to use it. Doing this prep will help you feel calm and ready when it’s showtime.
Relax and remember it’s a conversation. Right before the interview, take a few deep breaths. Remind yourself: the goal is to have a pleasant conversation that provides value. It’s not a live TV debate; if you stumble or need to rephrase, it’s okay (most podcasts can be edited). You’ve done your homework, so trust yourself. Have a glass of water nearby, smile (it comes through in your voice!), and enjoy the experience.
Being well-prepared can make the difference between a mediocre appearance and a stellar one. You’ll speak more clearly and confidently, and that helps fulfill the ultimate goal: connecting with the audience.
Make Your Guest Appearance Memorable
So you’re on the podcast. How do you make sure that listeners remember you and that your episode leaves a lasting impression? Apart from delivering value through information, the secret sauce is often to share something unique, vulnerable, or exclusive that they can’t get elsewhere. Here are some ways to do that:
Share a personal story you haven’t widely told. It could be a challenge you overcame, a mistake that taught you a big lesson, or a quirky experience that shaped your career. Being a bit vulnerable and open humanizes you. For example, an early-career software developer might share, “I actually dropped out of a coding bootcamp because I felt lost, but that ‘failure’ led me to discover a different learning path that worked better for me.” Such honesty can resonate strongly with listeners. It’s memorable because it’s real and not something you’d post in a polished LinkedIn update.
Offer an exclusive insight or tip. Think of something valuable that you haven’t shared in your blogs or social media yet – something podcast listeners get as a bonus. It might be a fresh strategy you’re experimenting with, or your candid take on an industry trend. For instance, “One thing I haven’t written about yet is how I use video game soundtracks to boost my coding productivity, it sounds weird, but it works, and here’s why…” The novelty will stick in listeners’ minds.
Be genuinely you with energy. Memorability isn’t only about content, but also delivery. If you’re naturally funny, don’t be afraid to inject a little joke or lighthearted comment. If you’re super passionate about a niche topic, let that excitement come through in your voice. Enthusiasm is contagious. A listener who enjoys your energy will remember how you made them feel. Conversely, if you stay very safe and generic, you risk blending into the crowd of “just another guest.”
Engage with the host in the moment. Sometimes the most memorable parts of a podcast are the unscripted back-and-forths or spontaneous tangents. If the host asks an unexpected question or shares their own anecdote, react to it, build on it, enjoy the exchange. Those natural conversational moments often create the magic of an episode. Don’t be so stuck to your talking points that you miss an opportunity to riff or dive deeper into an interesting side topic that comes up. That unique dialogue can set your episode apart.
Finally, don’t forget to mention where people can find you or your work at the end of the episode (most hosts will prompt you for this). It might not be a “memorable story,” but it’s crucial for listeners to remember how to follow up with you, whether that’s your website, newsletter, or LinkedIn profile. Combine a standout appearance with an easy way to find you, and you’ve maximized the impact of your guest spot.
The Big Picture: Why Podcast Guesting Is Worth It
By now, you have a solid grasp on how to get started as a podcast guest but let’s zoom out to reinforce why it’s such a worthwhile endeavor. Appearing on podcasts can bring a host of benefits to your personal and professional growth:
Access to a growing, dedicated audience. Podcast listenership has exploded over the past decade. Every week, 90 million Americans tune in to podcasts, and globally the audience keeps surging year after year. These listeners often subscribe to shows and listen regularly, meaning you’re reaching people who are actively looking for content. Unlike a fleeting social media scroll, a podcast listener might spend 30 minutes or more hearing your thoughts, a level of attention that’s hard to get elsewhere.
Build your personal brand and credibility. When you’re featured on a podcast, by association you gain a bit of the show’s authority. It’s an implicit endorsement: this host thinks you have something valuable to say. Over time, a string of podcast appearances can position you as an expert or thought leader in your domain. Listeners might start recognizing your name. As noted earlier, a significant chunk of listeners will follow you if they liked what they heard. You can reference podcast appearances on your resume or LinkedIn, showing you’re active in industry conversations. All of this boosts your professional image.
Expand your network in meaningful ways. Podcasting is a community. By appearing on shows, you inevitably meet new people – the hosts, possibly other guests, and even listeners who reach out to you. These connections can lead to collaborations or opportunities you didn’t anticipate. Maybe a listener invites you to speak at a virtual panel, or a host connects you with a job lead. Those new connections could turn into long-term professional relationships or friendships.
Practice and polish your communication skills. Each podcast interview is a workout for your speaking and storytelling abilities. You’ll get better at articulating your thoughts, thinking on your feet, and explaining complex ideas in simple terms. These are skills that translate to job interviews, conference talks, and team meetings. Essentially, podcast guesting is a form of professional development. Plus, if you ever plan to do public speaking or even host your own podcast someday, these guest experiences serve as valuable training.
Opportunities to repurpose and promote content. After your episode goes live, you can share the link on your LinkedIn, Twitter, or personal website. It gives you fresh content to show off (“Check out my interview on X Podcast where I talk about Y”). You can even repurpose insights you shared on the podcast into a blog post or video later. The podcast is evergreen content that can continue to bring you traffic or followers long after it airs. Someone might discover that episode a year from now and look you up.
In summary, being a podcast guest is more than just an ego boost of being “on air.” It’s a strategic move for career and personal growth. The podcast boom isn’t slowing down and as the medium grows, so do the opportunities for guests like you to share your knowledge and stories. As of last year, over half of U.S. adults have listened to podcasts and the number is steadily climbing. This is a train that’s very much worth hopping on.
Ready, Set, Guest!
Embarking on your podcast guest journey can feel daunting, but it’s also exciting. To recap, you learned how to find opportunities (from LinkedIn posts to dedicated platforms), craft an effective pitch, and the importance of possibly starting small. We covered being open-minded with topics, doing a precall to align with the host, and why bringing a promotional angle can be a win win. You now have tips to prepare thoroughly and deliver a memorable performance by sharing your authentic self.
All that’s left is to take action. Make a list of a few podcasts in your niche, reach out to those hosts, and see where it leads. Each interview you land will build your confidence and profile, creating momentum for more opportunities. Over time, you might find that you become the one inundated with podcast invites!
Good luck, and enjoy the process! Who knows, you might even have fun and learn more about yourself along the way. As you share your voice, you’re not only helping others with your insights, but also carving out your own space in the community.
Interested in more personalized advice on software careers, podcasting, or professional growth? I offer 15-minute 1:1 consultations on these topics and more. Feel free to book a slot at https://careercodepro.com. I’d love to help you level up in your journey!
Good actionable ideas!